Which Lexus has a V8?
The LC 500 is the current Lexus model most commonly associated with a traditional V8 engine. Across Lexus’s history, several other models wore V8 powertrains, though many have been phased out or replaced by smaller, turbocharged or hybrid options. This article explains where V8s have appeared in the Lexus lineup and what sits in production today.
Current V8-powered Lexus models
To understand today’s offering, it helps to know which models still use a conventional V8. Lexus has largely moved to V6 and hybrid powertrains in recent years, but the LC 500 family remains the main source of new, non-hybrid V8 power in the lineup.
- LC 500 and LC 500 Convertible — 5.0-liter V8 (2UR-GSE), producing about 471–472 hp depending on model year
These are the primary production models sold new in recent years with a traditional gasoline V8. Other classic V8-powered Lexus models are no longer in regular production, or rely on different powertrains in newer generations.
Historical V8-powered Lexus models
Over Lexus’s history, V8 engines powered a variety of cars—from flagship sedans to large SUVs and performance coupes. The following examples illustrate the breadth of V8 use, especially in older generations or in used-car markets.
- LS 460 / LS 460 L — 4.6-liter V8 (1UR-FSE)
- LS 600h L — 5.0-liter V8 (2UR-FSE) paired with hybrid propulsion
- GX 460 — 4.6-liter V8 (1UR-FE)
- LX 570 — 5.7-liter V8 (3UR-FE)
- IS F — 5.0-liter V8 (2UR-GSE)
- GS F — 5.0-liter V8 (2UR-GSE)
- RC F — 5.0-liter V8 (2UR-GSE) (offered in certain markets and years; production has varied by region and period)
Notes: Several of these models are no longer in regular production, and newer Lexus lineups favor V6 turbocharged or hybrid powertrains. The LX series shifted away from V8 in its latest generation, adopting V6 turbo power in many markets.
Engine technology context
Historically, Lexus used a family of V8 engines derived from the Toyota 1UR/2UR/3UR blocks, with variations such as the 2UR-GSE (5.0L) and 3UR-FE (5.7L). In recent years, Lexus has prioritized downsized turbocharged V6 engines and electrified powertrains to meet efficiency and emissions targets, reserving traditional V8s primarily for the LC lineup and select used or older models.
What this means for buyers today
For shoppers seeking a brand-new Lexus with a traditional V8, the LC 500 family is the clear option. If you’re open to pre-owned vehicles, you can find older LS sedans, GX SUVs, LX models, or performance variants (IS F, GS F, RC F) in the used market, bearing in mind age, maintenance costs, and fuel economy. The newest Lexus strategy centers on V6 and hybrid technology for most new purchases.
Summary
In short, the LC 500 is the current flagship for Lexus’s V8-powered lineup, while a broader history includes LS 460, LS 600h L, GX 460, LX 570, IS F, GS F, and RC F. The brand has largely moved away from new V8s in favor of V6 and hybrid options, making the LC 500 the primary contemporary avenue for traditional V8 power.
